Wildland firefighter walking with huge wildfire in the background.

Idaho Fire Information

In Idaho, the Bureau of Land Management is responsible for managing one of the largest and most complex fire programs in the BLM, protecting approximately 11 million acres of range and forest land in central and southern Idaho and employing nearly 500 people.  Each year, the team responds to an average of 330 fires that burn about 270,000 acres of public and private lands.  Our mission is to be safe, efficient, progressive and collaborative and to focus on our highest priority - firefighter and public safety.  

The program includes:

  • Suppression: Includes approximately 50 fire engines, 2 helicopters, 3 single engine air tankers, 3 air attack planes, 11 bulldozers, 8 water tenders, 1 Interagency Hotshot Crew and 4 Interagency dispatch centers.
  • Fuels management: Treatments on more than 100,000 acres a year include mechanical thinning, prescribed fire, chemical treatments, seeding and restoration and creation of fuel breaks to aid suppression efforts. 
  • Emergency stabilization & rehabilitation: Restores burned areas following fires.
  • Prevention, mitigation and community assistance: Includes traditional and social media information, FireWise, fire cause investigations, cost recovery and support for cooperators with training and equipment.  In Idaho, BLM partners with Rangeland Fire Protective Associations (RFPAs), Idaho Department of Lands, rural and volunteer departments and other federal agencies.  

Prevent Human-Caused Wildfire on Your Public Lands This Summer

  • Fireworks, incendiary/tracer ammunition and exploding targets are prohibited. 
  • Use caution when target shooting. Clear all flammable materials and rocks away from the target area.
  • Before you depart on your adventure, make sure your vehicle and trailers are properly maintained
    • Inspect your vehicle and trailer for dragging metal and perform regular maintenance.
    • Check tire pressure and look for indicators of wear and tear.
    • Ensure tires are inflated to the proper level.
    • Equip your vehicle with spark arrestors.
    • Maintain and clean exhaust systems and spark arrestors.
  • Avoid driving your vehicle off the road surface and into tall grasses.  
  • Carry extra water, shovel and/or a fire extinguisher with you when outdoors. 
  • Ensure your campfire is completely extinguished before leaving your campsite.
  • If you start a fire, call 911 immediately.